Shelley, Author at On the Go in MCO

Behind the Falls of Ihu’s Breakaway Falls At Aquatica

Behind The Falls of Ihu’s Breakaway Falls Dropping at Aquatica Orlando May 9

Aquatica Orlando is adding Ihu’s Breakaway Falls to their lineup of attractions, and I am super excited to give it a try!

Until the attraction opens you can follow Aquatica Orlando’s Vice President Bryan Nadeau Behind the Falls for an insider’s look into Ihu’s Breakaway Falls – the tallest, steepest and only multi-drop tower slide of its kind in Orlando AND all of the southern United States that will be dropping into Aquatica Orlando May 9, 2014.

Ihu’s Breakaway Falls is nearly 80 ft tall and also where you’ll face your fears and each other. Offering four unique slide paths, you’ll step into one of three “breakaway boxes” and watch each other fall one-by-one or test your bravery on a fourth open slide for a different but just as thrilling experience. You’ll never know who’s going to breakaway first – and the anticipation of who drops next is part of the wild ride!

Check out the first Behind the Falls webisode!

httpv://youtu.be/iTJO7ZsooMQ

Be among the first to hear the latest updates and go Behind the Falls by staying connected on Facebook and joining the conversation using #NothingTaller. For more information visit AquaticaOrlando.com.

All Aboard the Hogwarts Express At Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort Reveled New Details About The Magical Journey Guests Will Experience Aboard The Hogwarts Express

Universal Creating First-Ever Experience that Will Allow Guests to Actually Ride

the Iconic Train Between London and Hogsmeade – Just Like in the Books and Films

Reading the Harry Potter Series of books the one thing that I always wanted to do was to walk through to Platform 9 ¾ to board the Hogwarts Express, and now Universal Orlando is releasing more details about this experience coming to the Parks later this summer.

httpv://youtu.be/5gmSf4R2Ac4

This is going to be a ground breaking experience, because for the first time guests will be able to hop aboard this interactive ride between the two world of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The Hogwarts Express will connect the new land in Universal Studios Florida with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure – allowing guests with park-to-park admission to enjoy a real journey aboard the iconic locomotive.

Once you are in your cabin, storytelling will be taken to the next level through state-of-the-art animation and special effects coupled with live action.

Can you imagine…

· Being transported from the Muggle world to the wizarding world as you pass through the brick wall at King’s Cross Station to arrive at Platform 9 ¾

· Watching in amazement as the Hogwarts Express pulls into the station – its billowing steam and authentic whistle beckoning you to hop aboard

· Sitting in one of the train’s cabins with your family and friends and actually riding the Hogwarts Express – just as your favorite characters did in the Harry Potter films

· Looking outside your cabin window and enjoying a scenic, breathtaking journey through the British countryside as you encounter magical creatures, some of your favorite Harry Potter characters…and even Dementors…

And since you will be traveling between Hogsmeade and King‘s Cross Station in London, the two trips will be completely different!

Guests aboard the train’s cabins will be able to watch out of their windows to see as your magical journey plays out. Some things you will be able to see along the way are Hagrid pulling alongside the train on his flying motorbike, Buckbeak the Hippogriff swoop gracefully over the black lake, the Weasley twins on brooms and up to their usual antics, and the Knight Bus swerving through London traffic. I’m sure that there will also be a ton of great surprises along the way, too!

Here are some sample animation grabs that you might see out of your window.

Continuing on their comittment to creating a detailed and authentic experience in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Creative Team at Universal Orlando has been colaborating with Warner Bros., Stuart Craig, and the production team from the Harry Potter Films. They have been diligently working to produce a family-friendly ride that is authentic, even down to the paint colors and whistle.

It is important to keep in mind one key thing about the addition of the Hogwarts Express. If you are going to ride on the Hogwarts Express you’ll need Park-to-Park Admission to board in either King’s Cross Station or Hogsmeade Station. Or you can visit either land with a Single Park Admission Ticket without access to the Hogwarts Express.

We can’t wait to continue to bring you coverage of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley expansion at the Universal Orlando Resort! So make sure you keep up with our latest adventures and pictures on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram!

LEGOLAND Florida Opens Restored Florida Pool

LEGOLAND Florida is continuing to pay tribute to the heritage of Cypress Gardens by reopening the Florida Pool and Oriental Gardens. Surrounded by elected officials and community leaders, General Manager Adrian Jones and Bob Gernert, former Winter Haven Chamber Executive Director and Cypress Gardens historian, reopened this historic area.

As we approached the area we were greeted by Former Cypress Gardens southern belles in their billowing dresses and the LEGO belles.

The Florida Pool was filled to brim with LEGO brick and the outside of the pool was lined with fresh Florida citrus, paying homage to the iconic citrus photos made famous by Dick Pope, Sr. during the mid-1900s.

httpv://youtu.be/nJsdysmg8W0

“We have taken great care to restore and maintain the historic Cypress Gardens since our opening in 2011 and we are thrilled to reopen such beloved areas as the Florida Pool and the Oriental Gardens for guests of all ages to enjoy,” said Adrian Jones, LEGOLAND Florida General Manager.

Cypress Gardens was Florida’s first theme park that became famous for its botanical gardens, southern belles, and was known as the Water Ski Capitol of the World from the 1930s through the 1960s.

Cypress Gardens was used as a film site for a multitude of movies and TV shows, and the Florida Pool was originally built as a set for the 1953 film, “Easy to Love”, starring Esther Williams.

LEGOLAND Florida has taken great care to restore Cypress Gardens to beautiful, historic, and pristine condition as they sit at the heart of the park.

The collection of native plants, including azaleas and camellias, have been reclaimed and combined with a range of exotic species to create a horticultural masterpiece. The breathtaking Banyan Tree, planted in 1939 as a seedling, still stands prominent within the gardens.

“The most exciting thing about this is it makes the gardens whole again,” said Gernert. “It makes it exactly what it was when Mr. and Mrs. Pope put the concept together so many years ago.”

Cypress Gardens is included with general park admission. The best way to experience LEGOLAND Florida is with the LEGOLAND Florida Resident Annual Pass as low as $99 each. Pass members receive unlimited admission for 12 months to LEGOLAND Florid and free parking. For the most current information on special events, daily operating hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.LEGOLAND.com.

Robin Thicke Rescheduled To Perform At Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Celebration

Robin Thicke set to perform on June 7, 2014

as part of Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Celebration

After a cancellation due to illness earlier this year, Robin Thicke has rescheduled his Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Celebration concert for June 7, 2014! It is really great to see him coming back to Orlando, because his concert was highly anticipated by so many! And selfishly, I am excited to see the spirit of the Big Easy extend into June!

For full details about the upcoming concert, please check out the information from the Universal Orlando Resort below!

The excitement of Mardi Gras now continues through June 7 at Universal Orlando Resort, with a live performance by GRAMMY nominated musician Robin Thicke (performance rescheduled from Feb. 22). The summer of 2013 marked the debut of Thicke’s highly anticipated new studio album, Blurred Lines. The release quickly took the music world by storm and landed at #1 on Billboard’s Top 200 while, “Blurred Lines,” the single, set records around the world. It went to No. 1 in more than 100 countries and had a record-setting 12-week reign in the US at the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Robin continues to receive accolades for the album and single, including three GRAMMY Award nominations and four NAACP Image Award nominations.

Along with the live concert, guests can experience the spirit of the legendary Bayou bash during the dazzling Mardi Gras parade, featuring 12 vibrant floats, including three new additions celebrating Jules Verne’s novel, “Around the World in 80 Days.” Guests can also visit Universal Studios Florida’s very own French Quarter Courtyard to enjoy delectable Cajun cuisine and see performances by bands pulled straight from Bourbon Street.

The excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida. For more information, visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.

2014 Mardi Gras Talent Line-Up
Mardi Gras Event Dates	Headliners (performing in the Music Plaza)
March 14	Cody Simpson
March 15	Foreigner
March 21	A Great Big World
March 22	Gavin DeGraw
March 28	Kelly Rowland
March 29	Weezer
April 5	Skillet
April 12	Lynyrd Skynyrd
April 19	Kool & the Gang
May 3	Nelly
May 10	The Wanted
May 17	The Roots
May 24	Cher Lloyd
May 31	Huey Lewis and the News
June 7	Robin Thicke

Robin Thicke – Saturday, June 7, 2014

4:00 p.m. – French Quarter Courtyard Opens

8:15 p.m. – Mardi Gras Parade Starts

9:00 p.m. – Concert Begins

Wordless Wednesday – Festival of Fantasy Parade

Wordless Wednesday – March 12, 2014

2014 Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic.

A super huge thank you to Kelly Christine Delaney for sharing her soccer knowledge, for tweeting from the games, and for this post!

The fifth annual Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic was a great kickoff to the 2014 soccer season as excitement mounts for Orlando City SC to join Major League Soccer, MLS. Eight teams participated and Orlando was the only USL team to participate this year.

The other seven teams were from Brazil (Fluminense FC) and Major League Soccer teams (Red Bull New York, Philadelphia Union, Sporting Kansas City, Columbus Crew, Montreal Impact, and Toronto FC.)

I was able to attend a fair amount of the matches for the third year in a row and I’ve really enjoyed seeing internationally known world class athletes in a more laid back environment.

There’s something special about seeing players and coaches you admire in such a close setting that you can’t experience during the regular season or in other preseason tournaments. It was also interesting to see the rosters of these teams take form as they cut various trialists to prepare for the season.

I highly recommend you check out the Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic next year at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex as it will be your first chance to see Orlando City in their new role as an MLS team and congratulations to the Columbus Crew for winning the Classic this year.

Atlanta Braves Spring Training Schedule At ESPN Wide World of Sports

Atlanta Braves Spring Training Underway

at ESPN Wide World of Sports

This year’s Spring Training game lineup will showcase some of Major League Baseball’s marquee teams, including the reigning World Series Champion Boston Red Sox and National League Champion St. Louis Cardinals.

This year’s roster retains many of the players on the 2013 National League East champion squad, including a core of strong young players, first baseman Freddie Freeman, right fielder Jason Heyward, left fielder Justin Upton and shortstop Andrelton Simmons. The Braves’ pitching staff remains mostly unchanged (excluding the loss of Tim Hudson) from the league-leading ERA lineup of last year. The projected rotation includes Kris Medlen, Mike Minor, Julio Teheran, Brandon Beachy and Alex Wood, with Craig Kimbrel, Jordan Walden and Luis Avilan in the bullpen.

Information on the Braves’ Spring Training season tickets, suite/hospitality, group tickets and mini-plans is available by calling our Premium Sales team at 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at www.espnwwos.com/atlantabraves. The popular mini-packs are now on sale, featuring four separate three-game options in 2014 and giving fans their first opportunity to purchase tickets to specific games on the Braves’ 2014 spring training schedule.

2014 Atlanta Braves Spring Training Home Schedule

Date

Opponent

Time

Tuesday, March 11

Philadelphia Phillies

1:05 PM

Wednesday, March 12

Washington Nationals

1:05 PM

Friday, March 14

Tampa Bay Rays

1:05 PM

Saturday, March 15

St. Louis Cardinals

1:05 PM

Wednesday, March 19

New York Yankees

1:05 PM

Friday, March 21

Detroit Tigers

1:05 PM

Saturday, March 22

Boston Red Sox

1:05 PM

Sunday, March 23

New York Mets

1:05 PM

Monday, March 24

Houston Astros

6:05 PM

Wednesday, March 26

Miami Marlins

1:05 PM

All times are Eastern and are subject to change

Animal Kingdom and Epcot Connecting Families With Nature

Animal Kingdom and Epcot

Connecting Families With Nature Series

Throughout the year Animal Kingdom and Epcot will be hosting Connecting Families With Nature Series of special events designed to bring attention to animals, their habitats, and what we humans can do to help them not only thrive but survive!

The events take place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot. The goal of each is to provide kids and families with a special opportunity to connect with nature, talk to our animal experts, and learn more about some of the fantastic creatures with whom we share our planet. Here’s the list of our 2014 events. Watch the Disney Parks Blog for more detailed posts shortly before each one. We hope to see you at one or more of them!

We ventured to Rafiki’s Planet Watch for the first event in the year long series on March 4th to celebrate ‘Springing Forward’ a few days early by celebrating frogs, toads and other amphibians.

Once we arrived, we were greeted by Cast Members and found all sorts of great games, activities, and special examinations we could watch.

The first thing we did, as we listened to Guitar Dan, was to make our very own Toad Abode for the frogs and toads in our yard to be comfy as Cast Members told us about frogs that were native to Florida. You know that I HAD to have a few Mickey’s on there!

Once inside we were able to try our hand at several games (who knew I could standing jump 7 ft!), watched an examination of a frog, and learned ways that we could do our part to help frogs.

Did you know that, according to some estimates, as many as one-third of the known amphibian species are threatened by extinction because of loss of habitat, climate change, pollution and disease? To find out more about Disney conservation efforts, visit www.disney.com/conservation

These Connecting Families With Nature Special Events are a great way to make your trip to the park extra special, and I know that we will definitely be going to more throughout the year. We had so much fun!

If you want to join in the fun with us, here are the upcoming 2014 events for Connecting Families with Nature! You always want to keep in mind that dates subject to change:

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom:

March 4: Spring Forward for Amphibians Day — Just a few days before we adjust our clocks forward for Daylight Savings Time, we’re “springing forward” to celebrate frogs, toads and other amphibians.
April 22: Party for the Planet in celebration of Earth Day — Every day is a Party for the Planet at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as guests and cast members join together to celebrate the wonders of nature, but, on Earth Day, there will be even more natural magic. Included is a celebration of the release of Disneynature’s new True Life Adventure “Bears,” in theaters April 18, which showcases a year in the life of a bear family as two impressionable young cubs are taught life’s most important lessons.
May 6: International Migratory Bird Day — Time to celebrate of one the wonders of nature – bird migration – and the ways we can help protect birds on their journeys.
May 20: World Turtle Day — Turtles are fascinating creatures, and really cool dudes, too – just ask Crush! Both Disney’s Animal Kingdom and The Seas with Nemo & Friends celebrate turtles with special activities.
June 10: Pollinator Day — butterflies, bees and other pollinators are the stars of this celebration.
July 29: Big Cat Day — It’s all about the largest cats, like lions and tigers – cats to whom you wouldn’t want to say, “here, kitty, kitty.”
August 5: Primate Day — The perfect place to find out what a 400-pound gorilla and a one-pound cotton-top tamarin have in common.
September 23: Elephant and Rhino Day — Learn fun facts and important conservation information about magnificent and endangered elephants and rhinos.

At The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot:

April 22: Earth Day Celebration — It’s an ocean of fun at The Seas on Earth Day as this Earth Day celebration focuses on marine animals.
May 20: World Turtle Day — See the magnificent sea turtles swim by in the main aquarium and find out what each of us can do to keep turtles safe in the wild.
June 4: World Oceans Day — Join Nemo, Dory, Crush and the rest of the gang in celebrating the wonders of the oceans.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort Retro Fitness Center

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort to Feature

Jack LaLanne Branded Fitness Center

Fitness center among the many amenities offered at Universal Orlando’s newest hotel including
bowling alley, lazy river, zero-entry pools and more

Guests can enjoy the resort’s brand-new family suites for introductory rates as low as $104 per family, per night

Universal Orlando Resort announced today that the world’s first Jack LaLanne-branded fitness center will be located at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal Orlando’s new moderate-and value-priced property, opening March 31, 2014.

The Jack LaLanne Fitness Center will perfectly complement the retro theming of Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort while paying homage to LaLanne, a pioneer of personal training and a television celebrity on “The Jack LaLanne Show” – a fitness program that was iconic during the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.

From LaLanne memorabilia – including photos, trophies, artifacts and even a full-size statue of the fitness guru himself – to televisions playing old episodes of his show, guests will be immersed in the legacy of “the godfather of fitness” while keeping in shape on modern, state-of-the-art exercise equipment.

“When you think of fitness during these iconic decades, Jack LaLanne just resonates in our minds,” said Russ Dagon, Vice President and Executive Project Director, Universal Creative. “This partnership with the LaLanne family will complement the new property wonderfully, and we’re delighted that his name will live on here at Cabana Bay Beach Resort.”

The Jack LaLanne Fitness Center is just one of the many amenities that will be available to Cabana Bay Beach Resort guests. Additional offerings include a 10-lane bowling alley, two zero-entry pools, an iconic dive tower water slide and Universal Orlando’s first lazy river with waterfalls and cannons for interactive fun. The resort will also feature themed eateries, bars and a coffee shop.

“We’re creating a destination within our destination,” said Adnan Bizri, Managing Director, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. “From the beautiful pool areas to the bowling alley to the lazy river, we’re making sure that the fun doesn’t stop when the theme parks close.”

Guests can now book Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort for stays beginning March 31, 2014. The whole family can experience the resort’s new family suites with limited time introductory rates starting at $104 per night for a seven-night stay to $134 per night for a three-night stay. Conditions apply.

To learn more or to make a reservation, call 1-888-273-1311 or visit www.universalorlando.com.

About Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Cabana Bay Beach Resort is Universal Orlando Resort’s fourth on-site hotel with striking color schemes and nostalgic details throughout the décor. The new, 1800-room hotel features moderately priced family suites available this spring at the special preview price and value-priced guest rooms available June 16, 2014, along with a wealth of recreation. When complete, guests can experience a 10-lane bowling alley and enjoy two massive pools with sand beaches, a lazy river, waterslide and more.
The all-new family suites sleep up to six, surrounding guests with bold design, period colors, neon and a cool retro feel. The suites also feature a kitchenette with microwave, mini-refrigerator and sink. Combining affordability with convenience, the hotel’s location is within walking distance of both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Plus, hotel guests enjoy Early Park Admission to TheWizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the theme park opens.

About Universal Orlando Resort
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And coming this summer: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, opening March 31; and Universal CityWalk – a nighttime entertainment complex featuring a collection of nightclubs, restaurants and shops. And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.
Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram andYouTube.

The LEGO Movie Weekends Return To LEGOLAND Florida

With a record-breaking box office debut, an action-packed video game and a contagious song, everything is awesome with The LEGO Movie, and kids and parents alike just can’t get enough. So, it’s no surprise that these fans are looking to LEGOLAND Florida for more movie-themed fun in a fantastic LEGO inspired theme park setting. Back by popular demand, The LEGO Movie Weekend festivities will return to LEGOLAND Florida every weekend in March starting Mar. 8, bringing back scavenger hunts, photo opportunities as well as new family fun with a chance to help transform Miniland USA’s New York City into the famous Bricksburg.

The LEGO Movie Weekend at LEGOLAND Florida

includes the following activities:

New! The LEGO Movie Take Over of Miniland’s New York City – Miniland USA
Guests can use their imagination to build their own unique LEGO model to help LEGOLAND Florida Master Model Builders transform Miniland USA’s New York City into Emmet’s home town, Bricksburg. Master Model Builders will add iconic LEGO Bricksburg Models each weekend such as:

The construction crane hoisting “The LEGO Movie” Logo over the city.
Lord Business’ Evil Lair
Batman’s Batwing Vehicle
Benny’s Spaceship…and more!

New! LEGO Batman Photo Opportunity – Imagination Zone

Pose with the LEGO Batman, Wyldstyle’s boyfriend in “The LEGO Movie.”

Meet & Greet with Emmet & Wyldstyle – Imagination Zone

Fans can walk the red carpet and meet the stars of “The LEGO Movie,” Emmet and Wyldstyle.

The LEGO Movie Scavenger Hunt – Miniland USA

Emmet, Wyldstyle and Lord Business are lost in Miniland USA. Guests can help find them to save the day! Guests can submit an entry to win a LEGO Prize Pack at www.legoland.com. See website for official rules.

The LEGO Movie Video Game Challenge – Warner Bros. Games Zone

Gaming fans can test their skills and play the latest action-packed video game, “The LEGO Movie.”

The LEGO Movie Mural Build – Imagination Zone

Families can build together and help create a giant LEGO poster of “The LEGO Movie.”

Currently in theaters nationwide, The LEGO® Movie is the first-ever, full-length theatrical LEGO® adventure from Warner Bros. Pictures, Village Roadshow Pictures and LEGO System A/S. Directed by Phil Lord & Christopher Miller, it stars Chris Pratt, Will Ferrell, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Nick Offerman,Alison Brie and Charlie Day, with Liam Neeson and Morgan Freeman.

The LEGO Movie Weekend is included with park admission and guests will have complete access to a full day of theme park fun with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions all geared to families with children ages 2 to 12. The best way to experience LEGOLAND Florida is with the LEGOLAND Florida Resident Annual Pass as low as $99 each. Pass members receive unlimited admission for 12 months to LEGOLAND Florida and the LEGOLAND Water Park, as well as all other Merlin US attractions (LEGOLAND California & Water Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, Sea Life Centers and Madam Tussauds), free parking and 10% off food and merchandise with no black-out dates. For the most current information on special events, daily operating hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.LEGOLAND.com.

LEGOLAND ® Florida:

LEGOLAND® Florida is a 150-acre interactive theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, a Water Park and The LEGO® World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network all geared to families with children ages 2 to 12. Recently announced, The LEGOLAND Hotel will open in 2015 featuring 152 highly themed rooms and suites, LEGO décor, interactive play areas, a pool and a restaurant. There are currently five other LEGOLAND Parks in the world – LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND Billund in Denmark, LEGOLAND Deutschland near Günzburg, Germany and LEGOLAND Windsor outside of London and just opened LEGOLAND Malaysia —the sixth LEGOLAND Park and first in Asia. The LEGOLAND theme parks are a part of Merlin Entertainments Group, the second largest attractions operator in the world. For the most current information, log on to www.LEGOLAND.com.

Inaugural Disney Fit Challenge Coming To ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex

Jump, Squat and Press! Disney Fit Challenge Lunges into Competitive Fitness at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Inaugural event at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex open to elite, intermediate and recreational participants; Three-day event will test competitors’ speed, strength, endurance, balance and power; Registration opens March 18th

The sport of competitive fitness, which is growing rapidly nationally and internationally, is coming to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort, the site of the inaugural Disney Fit Challenge this September.

Disney Fit Challenge will be a three-day event (Sept 26-28) involving athletes competing in different fitness challenges that test a participant’s speed, strength, skill, endurance, balance and power. Challenges are designed based on age and skill level with more experienced athletes competing in movements such as muscle-ups and double-unders while recreational participants compete in movements that may include box jumps, kettle bell swings, push-ups, squats and broad jumps. Competitors with the highest scores in their division and age group from the first two days advance to the final day of competition.

A Health & Fitness Expo will feature the latest fitness merchandise, products and apparel during the competition.

“Competitive fitness is one of the fastest growing sports domestically and internationally with hundreds of thousands of competitors with more and more getting involved every day,’’ said Mike Millay, Director of Sports Development for Disney Sports. “We have uniquely designed the Disney Fit Challenge so that there are a variety of skill levels and age groups which will allow every competitor to test their true fitness abilities while also having plenty of fun, and then celebrate their achievements with a family vacation at Walt Disney World Resort.’’

Disney Sports is collaborating with I AM CrossFit, one of the leading competitive fitness organizations in the Southeast, on the staging of Disney Fit Challenge. The event is the first of its kind held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, which hosts more than 350 sports events each year, and builds on the complex’s wide variety of athletic events geared towards athletes of all ages and abilities.

Registration opens March 18, with competition slated for indoor and outdoor venues at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Daily admission for spectators is $16.50 for adults and $11.50 for children and can be purchased at the sports complex box office.

About ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, which hosts more than 350 events a year, is the leading multi-sport venue for amateur and professional sports in the nation, accommodating 70 different sports and athletes from more than 70 countries. Designed to take youth sports to the next level, the 230-acre facility features multiple competition venues, including Champion Stadium, the HP Field House, the Jostens Center, the Hess Sports Fields, a track & field facility, a tennis complex and a baseball/softball sportsplex. It is also home to the ESPN Innovation Lab, a real-world testing ground for the ESPN Emerging Technology Group that develops ground-breaking on-air products like Ball Track and ESPN Snap Zoom. In addition, the complex features 56 high-definition cameras and 40 high-definition video screens, including three jumbo screens, which can capture and display footage from any event taking place at the complex. The ESPN Production Center produces over 700 hours of live sports programming for consumption around the world. The camera and video screens, as well as a 20-zone audio system, are controlled through the state-of-the-art HD Production Center with direct links to ESPN facilities in Bristol, Conn., New York and Los Angeles. For more information, visit www.disneysportsnews.com for press releases, photos and videos. Follow us on Twitter at @DisneySports and find us on Facebook.

SeaWorld Orlando Bands, Brew, & BBQ Final Week Headliners

Hank Williams, Jr. (MARCH 8) & Alabama (MARCH 9)

SeaWorld Orlando Bands, Brew & BBQ festival features only one more weekend of rocking concerts, mouth-watering BBQ, thirst-quenching beer and toe-tapping fun. It’s the last weekend, March 8 and 9.

Country legend Hank Williams, Jr. plays Saturday, March 8.

So you think you know ol’ Bocephus? Well, get ready for the most outspoken, controversial, flat-out rowdy Hank Williams, Jr. album in years with Old School, New Rules. A clearly energized Hank tackles 11 new songs—10 of them self-penned— with a vigor and sense of purpose that makes ample use of his remarkable musicality, instantly recognizable vocals, and always-present charisma. Though he has always been outspoken, Old School, New Rules boasts a completely unfiltered Hank Jr. Everybody knows Hank has lots of opinions about lots of things, but only a rare few could deliver those opinions in such an eloquent, powerful manner, with a traditional Hank sound that drives the message home in unforgettable fashion. Whomever he might be lambasting on a given tune, this is Bocephus at the height of his powers, and it concerns him little what the reaction might be, within the music world or outside it.

Country stars Alabama play Sunday, March 9.

It’s been 40 years since a trio of young cousins left Fort Payne, Alabama, to spend the summer playing in a Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, bar called The Bowery. It took Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry and Jeff Cook six long years of tip jars and word of mouth to earn the major label deal they’d been dreaming of, but then seemingly no time at all to change the face of country music. ALABAMA is the band that changed everything. They reeled off 21 straight #1 singles, a record that will probably never be equaled in any genre. They brought youthful energy, sex appeal and a rocking edge that broadened country’s audience and opened the door to self-contained bands from then on, and they undertook a journey that led, 73 million albums later, to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Both shows start at 4 p.m. at the park’s Bayside Stadium. Visit SeaWorldOrlando.com for more details.

Bands, Brew & BBQ also celebrates the food! Serious barbecue connoisseurs can taste it all and pick their favorites. Sample Orlando’s best barbecue from local smokehouses — Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que, Cecil’s Texas Style BAR-B-Q and Sonny’s BBQ^® – plus SeaWorld’s very own Sweet & Smokin’ Barbecue. Sip on our ice-cold craft beer selection while enjoying live rocking concerts and exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Even the little ones have their own area to get up close to animals, work on masterpieces at coloring stations, take photos with SeaWorld costume characters, learn from educators and play interactive games.

During Bands, Brew & BBQ, all Harley-Davidson® riders get free parking when they ride their hog to SeaWorld. And in between all the eating and line dancing, event-goers can take in the proudly displayed 2014 Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

Like all other events at SeaWorld Orlando, Bands, Brew & BBQ is included with park admission or any annual pass product.

The best way to experience Bands, Brew & BBQ is with a Fun Card; pay for a day and play all year – with no blackout dates – to experience all of SeaWorld’s remarkable events.

Visit SeaWorldOrlando.com for more information.

About SeaWorld:

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment inspires millions, through the power of entertainment, to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world. The Company has been creating innovative entertainment experiences that blend imagination with nature for more than 50 years and is best known for its 11 U.S. theme parks, attractions that hosted more than 24 million guests in 2012 and include the beloved SeaWorld^®, Busch Gardens^® and Sesame Place^® brands. The parks offer guests a variety of up-close experiences, from animal encounters that invite exploration and appreciation of the natural world, to thrilling rides and spectacular shows. In 2011 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment began expanding its popular brands into media and entertainment platforms to connect people to nature and animals through movies, television, and digital media; plus began developing new lines of licensed consumer products.

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care. The Company maintains one of the largest animal collections in the world and has helped lead advances in the care of species in zoological facilities and in the conservation of wild populations. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment also operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue, rehabilitate and return to the ocean marine animals that are ill, injured and orphaned. The SeaWorld^® rescue team has helped more than 23,000 animals in need over the last four decades.

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment employs more than 21,000 people nationwide.

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Fifth Annual Food & Wine Classic Dates Announced

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Announce

Dates for Fifth Annual Food & Wine Classic

Culinary artistry, fine wine and celebrity chef meet-and-greets will once again highlight the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic. The event, back for its fifth year, will be held on Friday, Oct. 31, and Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, at the Epcot Resort Area hotel.

The outdoor festival will include food and beverage seminars, food and wine tastings and live music. Seminars will be led by the hotel’s chefs and certified beverage experts, while the hotel’s award-winning restaurants will showcase signature culinary selections to pair with tastings from more than 30 wineries.

Celebrity Chef Todd English will be in attendance to meet and greet with guests. English is a renowned restaurateur who has gained national acclaim through his line of restaurants and cookbooks, and other food-related enterprises. Todd English’s bluezoo is located in the hotel and features fresh seafood in a vibrant atmosphere.

With 17 restaurants and lounges, and a distinguished culinary and beverage team, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel continually earns national recognition for its food and beverage program. The hotel features more than 70 certified wine sommeliers and 1,400 wine selections.

Tickets to the Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic are currently available as part of a hotel package or individually. For more information or to book, please visit www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com or call 1-800-227-1500.

In the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Magic Kingdom Park. Guests can discover 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds and the luxurious Mandara Spa. The hotel features five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, complimentary transportation throughout the Walt Disney World Resort and the Extra Magic Hours benefit, where each day, one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks offers additional time for guests to enjoy select attractions. (Valid Theme Park admission and Resort ID required). The hotel can be reached at 800-227-1500, www.swandolphin.com or through Facebook at www.facebook.com/swananddolphin.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Atlantis Concert

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Welcomes Brevard Symphony Orchestra

For First-Ever Space Shuttle Atlantis Concert March 22

Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM, the largest and most comprehensive attraction in the world devoted to the U.S. Space Shuttle Program, at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will resonate with the inspiring sounds of “Symphonic Odyssey” performed by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra (BSO) on March 22 at 8 p.m.

In a first-of-its-kind concert, the BSO will celebrate its 60^th season with an evening of space-related and -inspired music performed beneath the historic orbiter in the $100 million, 90,000-square-foot Space Shuttle Atlantis attraction, which opened in 2013.

“We are proud to welcome the Brevard Symphony Orchestra to Space Shuttle Atlantis for this truly unique concert experience,” said Therrin Protze, Visitor Complex chief operating officer. “This will be the first time that such iconic music will be heard in this setting. We expect that the sound of the orchestra will reflect off the large surface of Space Shuttle Atlantis, creating an added acoustical sensation.”

The concert will feature Christopher Confessore, BSO musical director and principal conductor, conducting 60 professional musicians performing such music as Richard Strauss’ “Also Sprach Zarathustra” fanfare and Johann Strauss, Jr.’s “The Blue Danube Waltz,” both of which are familiar to fans of the film “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Other selections include “Star Wars” and “Star Trek” compositions by John Williams. A concert highlight will be a special performance of “The Last Starfighter Overture,” created recently by composer Craig Safan specifically for the “Symphonic Odyssey” concert.

Winston Scott, former astronaut and dean of the College of Aeronautics at Florida Institute of Technology, will make a special guest appearance during the concert to speak with the audience and share his experiences as a shuttle astronaut and his connections with music.

The concert is a fundraiser benefiting the BSO. General admission tickets are $150 per person and VIP admission is $250 per person. Those purchasing VIP admission tickets will receive dinner prior to the performance and reserved concert seating. VIP dinner seating begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Dr. Kurt H. Debus Conference Facility at the Visitor Complex. All guests at this history-making concert will receive a commemorative gift package as well as admission into Space Shuttle Atlantis. A cash bar will be available during the concert and doors will open at 7 p.m. To purchase tickets, visit www.brevardsymphony.com or call the BSO office at 321-242-2024.

Space Shuttle Atlantis features the historic spacecraft as only astronauts have seen it before – rotated 43.21 degrees with payload bay doors open and its Canadarm (robotic arm) extended, as if it has just undocked from the International Space Station. The immersive experience invites guests to “be the astronaut” with never-before-seen, technologically sophisticated multimedia presentations and more than 60 interactive, touch-screen experiences and high-tech simulators that bring to life the people, passion and patriotism of the 30-year Space Shuttle Program, as well as the complexity and magnitude of the engineering marvel that launched like a rocket, flew in orbit like a spacecraft and landed on a runway like a glider.

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, the new Angry Birds^™ Space Encounter, Shuttle Launch Experience, 3D IMAX^® space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space: Explorers Wanted and many other interactive exhibits. The new $100 million home for Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at noon and closing times vary by season. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

About the Brevard Symphony Orchestra

The BSO is Brevard’s premier professional orchestra. For 60 years, the Brevard Symphony Orchestra has brought quality performances, educational programs and outreach opportunities to the community. Our mission is to entertain and enrich individuals and communities, by creating exceptional, live symphonic music. The BSO is orchestra-in-residence at the King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne, Florida.

Christopher Confessore serves as Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra and Resident Conductor of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. During his tenure in Brevard, the orchestra has enjoyed a dramatic and sustained period of artistic excellence and has been praised for its innovative programming, spirited performances and broad repertoire. Mr. Confessore’s work with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra has garnered rave reviews for his “special talent for drawing the broadly lyrical out of his orchestra.” He leads the orchestra in a wide range of Classics, Pops, Educational and Outreach performances each season.

General information on the Brevard Symphony Orchestra can be obtained via the Internet by visiting the organization’s website: www.BrevardSymphony.com.

Author: Shelley

Behind the Falls of Ihu’s Breakaway Falls At Aquatica

All Aboard the Hogwarts Express At Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort Reveled New Details About The Magical Journey Guests Will Experience Aboard The Hogwarts Express

Universal Creating First-Ever Experience that Will Allow Guests to Actually Ride

the Iconic Train Between London and Hogsmeade – Just Like in the Books and Films

LEGOLAND Florida Opens Restored Florida Pool

Robin Thicke Rescheduled To Perform At Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Celebration

Robin Thicke set to perform on June 7, 2014

as part of Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Celebration

Wordless Wednesday – Festival of Fantasy Parade

Wordless Wednesday – March 12, 2014

2014 Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic.

Atlanta Braves Spring Training Schedule At ESPN Wide World of Sports

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at ESPN Wide World of Sports

Animal Kingdom and Epcot Connecting Families With Nature

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Connecting Families With Nature Series

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Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort to Feature

Jack LaLanne Branded Fitness Center

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includes the following activities:

Inaugural Disney Fit Challenge Coming To ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex

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SeaWorld Orlando Bands, Brew, & BBQ Final Week Headliners

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Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Fifth Annual Food & Wine Classic Dates Announced

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Announce

Dates for Fifth Annual Food & Wine Classic

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Atlantis Concert

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Welcomes Brevard Symphony Orchestra

For First-Ever Space Shuttle Atlantis Concert March 22

Wordless Wednesday – Flower & Garden Festival

Wordless Wednesday –

Flower & Garden Festival 3/5/14